Bene Vagienna
Welcome to Bene Vagienna
Hello everyone, today we'll talk about Bene Vagienna, a beautiful commune located in the province of Cuneo, in Piedmont. With its 3690 inhabitants, Bene Vagienna is the ideal place for those who want to get away from the chaos and enjoy a bit of tranquility surrounded by nature. The commune is located in the Cuneo plain, precisely at the confluence of the Mondalavia and Cucetta streams, two tributaries of the Tanaro. In addition, a part of Bene Vagienna's territory is included in the Special Natural Reserve of the Augusta Bagiennorum area, which preserves the biodiversity of the area.
The geography of Bene Vagienna
Bene Vagienna is divided into eight hamlets, each with its own beauty and uniqueness. Among these, we find Buretto, Gorra, Isola, Podio, Pra, Roncaglia, San Bernardo, and Santo Stefano. Each of these hamlets has something to offer visitors, from natural beauty to historical places. For example, Gorra is famous for the presence of numerous trails that allow you to admire the splendid landscape of the Langhe, while the hamlet of Podio is known for the production of prestigious wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco.
The history of Bene Vagienna
Did you know that Bene Vagienna has very ancient origins? In fact, the commune was founded by ancient Ligurian populations of the territory, the Bagienni (or Vagienni), who later mixed with the Roman-Augustan domination of the 2nd-1st century BC in Piedmont. Initially, the commune was called ''Augusta Bagiennorum'' or ''Vagiennorum''. Over the centuries, the city underwent various transformations and destructions until, in the 6th century, a new village arose located at the confluence of the Mondalavia and Cucetta streams.
But how has the name of Bene Vagienna changed over the centuries? The toponym ''Bagienna'', or ''Vagienna'', became first ''Bagienne'' and then ''Baenne''. Finally, the name simply became ''Bene'', perhaps also for good auspices, as already attested in some documents of the 9th century. In 901, the emperor Ludovico the Blind assigned to the Diocese of Asti the temporary possession of the village, which at the time was already equipped with an imperial court and an autonomous parish, with a very vast territory (about 7,500 hectares).
Bene Vagienna has a very rich and fascinating history. Over the centuries, the commune experienced various interruptions of the episcopal dominion, among which stands out the period of governance as a free Commune in the first half of the 13th century. During this period, Bene made both alliances and wars and was treated on an equal footing with the major communes and principalities of Upper Piedmont. In 1387, Amedeo of Casa Savoia seized the entire territory, destroying and ruining the city walls and the castle. This began the Savoy domination that was, compatibly with the times, a bringer of peace and prosperity. In the 15th century it was under the feudal dominion of the Costa di Chieri, a patrician of Chieri and his loyal vassal.
Things to see in Bene Vagienna
If you find yourself in Bene Vagienna, there are many things to see and do. For example, you can visit the archaeological area of Augusta Bagiennorum, which preserves the remains of a Roman civic forum, a theater, and an amphitheater. Furthermore, you can stroll along the historic center of Bene Vagienna, admiring the historic houses and churches. Not to be missed is the church of San Pietro, dating back to the 11th century, and the beautiful church of Santo Stefano, with its sail-shaped bell tower.
If you love art, instead, you cannot miss the Museum of Contemporary Art of Bene Vagienna, which hosts numerous works by contemporary artists. In addition, you can hike along the trails of the Langhe, admiring the vineyards and the natural landscape.
The cuisine of Bene Vagienna
Finally, let's talk about the cuisine of Bene Vagienna. The commune is famous for several traditional dishes, such as Bagnetto verde, a sauce made with parsley, garlic, oil, and breadcrumbs, which is served with bagna cauda. In addition, you cannot miss the Fritto misto alla piemontese, a dish made with fried meat and vegetables, and the Vitello tonnato, a boiled veal slice served with a sauce made with tuna, anchovies, and capers.
In short, Bene Vagienna is a commune that has a lot to offer visitors. If you are looking for peace and tranquility, nature and history, Bene Vagienna is definitely the place for you. Come discover this beautiful commune, you will be amazed by its beauty and its millennial history.
